Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Elizabeth

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Elizabeth, New Jersey?

  The non-emergency phone number of the Elizabeth Police Department is 908-558-2000.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Elizabeth, New Jersey?

  You can use the Elizabeth Police Department's online reporting system to file and print a free copy of a police report. Before filing one, you must verify the following details:

  • The incident happened in Elizabeth City.
  • The situation is not urgent.
  • The incident is not an active crime.
  • No immediate police action is necessary in response to the occurrence.

• Should you approach Elizabeth's police about your criminal case?

  To prevent self-incrimination, you should seek legal representation from an Elizabeth criminal defense attorney before speaking to the police. Remember that everything you say to police after being detained can be used against you in court, and they will employ several strategies to get confessions or other proof of guilt. A lawyer can defend you against police questioning techniques and make sure the police follow the correct procedures while questioning you.

• What kinds of charges do criminal defense lawyers in Elizabeth often handle?

  Criminal defense attorneys in Elizabeth frequently deal with charges of assault and threat crimes, domestic violence, the operation of a vehicle under the effects of alcohol or drugs, sexual abuse, weapon-related offenses, and fraudulent activities. They also work on cases involving narcotics possession, juvenile crimes, robbery, theft, and break-ins.

• How should you get ready for your initial meeting with a criminal defense lawyer in Elizabeth?

  When meeting with a criminal defense lawyer in Elizabeth for the first time, make copies of crucial documents related to your case, such as the charging document, affidavits, bond papers, and police records. Also, you should have a list of questions ready for the lawyer, such as inquiries about their experience with criminal law and their fee structure.

• What actions should you take after being detained in Elizabeth?

  The first thing you should do after being held in Elizabeth is to maintain your composure, be courteous, and keep quiet. Even if the police appear to be allowing you to tell your side of the story, choose not to talk about the details of your case because anything you say can be used against you in the courtroom. Before you respond to any queries from the authorities, call a lawyer to talk about the situation.

• Can you represent yourself in a criminal case in Elizabeth?

  In Elizabeth, you can certainly defend yourself in court. However, to do so is risky if you don't fully understand the criminal court system. A skilled criminal defense attorney, meanwhile, will be familiar with both the law and the criminal justice system. It is usually preferable to seek assistance from a criminal defense attorney with significant expertise to achieve favorable results.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.